Father sues multiple parties over Maui wildfires, claiming wrongful death: ‘Risk was real’
Father Files Landmark Wrongful Death Suit Against Multiple Parties Over Maui Wildfires: ‘Risk Was Not Theoretical’
The father of a woman who tragically lost her life in the devastating Maui, Hawaii wildfires is taking legal action against Maui County and the state, alleging wrongful death. Harold Dennis Wells is seeking justice for his daughter, Rebecca Rans, and holding local authorities accountable for their negligence and wrongful conduct leading up to the fires.
According to ABC News, Wells filed the lawsuit on Monday, highlighting the increasingly dangerous land management practices on Maui. He specifically mentioned the unchecked growth of invasive flammable plants in the years leading up to the fires, which posed a significant risk.
It’s truly heart-breaking to see the extent of the devastation in #lahania. Swipe map from @Esri with @Maxar imagery shows before and after the wildfires https://t.co/auit77iMsb pic.twitter.com/JwGpZxXvbX
— Robby Deming (@robbydeming) August 11, 2023
Wells argues that the risk of wildfires was well-known among governmental officials, utilities, and informed academics, as well as the owners of the grasslands. He points to the lack of reforms implemented after previous wildfires on Maui in 2018, emphasizing the need for action to prevent future tragedies.
“Despite this history of serious fires caused by predictable weather conditions, no one in a position to effect change did anything to prevent or substantially mitigate the risk,” Wells stated. He further alleges that the combination of weather, uncontrolled vegetation, and aging electrical infrastructure created a dangerous situation that was bound to result in a catastrophe.
#WATCH : Utter devastation left by the wildfires in Lahaina — Maui, Hawaii#BREAKINGNEWS #BREAKING #LATEST #MAUI #HAWAI #WILDFIRE #LAHANIA pic.twitter.com/BDI53MXkU3
— Nitesh rathore (@niteshr813) August 10, 2023
In addition to Maui County and the state, Wells has named Maui Electric Company, Hawaiian Electric Company, and Hawaiian Electric Industries as defendants in the lawsuit. These electric companies have been accused of failing to take adequate measures to mitigate wildfire risks following the 2018 fire. One theory suggests that downed power lines may have sparked the wildfires by igniting the local grasslands.
The Hill reported that the lawsuit also criticizes local government authorities for their poor response to the fires, particularly their failure to adequately warn residents. The county has faced widespread criticism for not using warning sirens as the fire approached.
When approached for comment, the owner of Maui Electric declined to provide a statement, according to ABC News.
The Maui wildfires claimed the lives of over 100 people and caused immense devastation in the town of Lahania, as reported by The Hill. Rebecca Rans and her long-term boyfriend Doug Gloege were tragically found burned to death blocks away from their home, as detailed in Wells’ court filings.
Wells’ lawsuit seeks compensation for his daughter’s death, burial expenses, and additional penalties, according to The Hill.
The post Father Files Landmark Wrongful Death Suit Against Multiple Parties Over Maui Wildfires: ‘Risk Was Not Theoretical’ appeared first on The Western Journal.
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